14 days trip
Highlights of Bhutan
Exploring Bhutan’s Best Sights
Overview
Immerse in Bhutan’s Cultural and Natural Wonders
This 14-day journey through Bhutan covers its most iconic destinations, from the spiritual Tiger's Nest Monastery to the serene Phobjikha Valley. Experience Bhutan’s rich culture, scenic hikes, and ancient monasteries, along with breathtaking mountain views. The itinerary includes visits to Punakha, Bumthang, and Thimphu, offering an unforgettable blend of adventure and tradition.
Trip Summary
Duration
14 days
Difficulty
Moderate
Max Elevation
3180m
Start point
Paro
End point
Paro
Daily Activity
4-5 hrs
Group Size
1-50 participants
Best Season
Autumn, Spring
Trip Outline
- Day 1Arrival and Sightseeing in Paro
- Day 2Paro to Punakha via Dochula Pass
- Day 3Explore Punakha
- Day 4Punakha to Trongsa
- Day 5Trongsa to Bumthang
- Day 6Hike to Ngang Lhakhang
- Day 7Hike to Petseling Monastery
- Day 8Bumthang to Phobjikha Valley
- Day 9Phobjikha Valley Exploration
- Day 10Phobjikha Valley to Wangdue
- Day 11Wangdue to Thimphu
- Day 12Sightseeing in Thimphu
- Day 13Drive to Paro and Hike to Tiger's Nest Monastery
- Day 14Final Departure
Included
- Trekking conservation permit
- Trekking Register Certificate
- Equipped and insured trekking porter
- Experienced and first aid trained license holder trekking guide
- Tea House accommodation during the trek in double occupancy
- All meals during the trek (B=breakfast, L=Lunch, D= Dinner)
- Sleeping bag (only if required)
- Government taxes and service charges
Not Included
- Drinks and Bar Bill (beverage) in the tea house trek
- Helicopter evacuation/rescue in case of emergency
- Personal Insurance
- Personal use trekking equipment
- Tipping to guide and porter
Highlights of Bhutan
Get started on your journey
Detailed itinerary
Day 1
Arrival and Sightseeing in Paro
Arrive at Paro International Airport and begin your Bhutan adventure by visiting Rinpung Dzong, a stunning fortress-monastery, and the sacred Kyichu Lhakhang temple. Walk around Paro town, getting a feel of the culture and local life.
Travel duration
-
Elevation
2250m
Meal
Breakfast
Accommodation
Hotel
Day 2
Paro to Punakha via Dochula Pass
Drive through the breathtaking Dochula Pass, where 108 stupas mark the landscape, offering stunning views of the Himalayas. Continue to Punakha, Bhutan’s former capital, and visit the magnificent Punakha Dzong at the confluence of the Pho and Mo Rivers.
Travel duration
-
Elevation
3100m
Meal
Breakfast
Accommodation
Hotel
Day 3
Explore Punakha
Spend the day exploring the lush Punakha Valley. Take a short hike to the Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, which offers panoramic views of the valley and river. Visit local villages and experience Punakha’s rural life.
Travel duration
-
Elevation
1250m
Meal
Breakfast
Accommodation
Hotel
Day 4
Punakha to Trongsa
Drive from Punakha to Trongsa, a small town known for the Trongsa Dzong, the largest fortress in Bhutan. Stop en route at viewpoints and small villages, and enjoy the beautiful landscapes of central Bhutan.
Travel duration
-
Elevation
2180m
Meal
Breakfast
Accommodation
Hotel
Day 5
Trongsa to Bumthang
Continue your journey to Bumthang, Bhutan’s spiritual heartland. On the way, visit the Chumey Valley and Yathra Weaving Center, where traditional Bhutanese textiles are crafted. Spend the evening exploring the charming Bumthang town.
Travel duration
-
Elevation
2850m
Meal
Breakfast
Accommodation
Hotel
Day 6
Hike to Ngang Lhakhang
Today, enjoy a gentle hike to the historic Ngang Lhakhang (Swan Temple), a revered spiritual site. Experience the serenity of the Bumthang countryside and learn about local legends connected to the area.
Travel duration
3 hours
Elevation
2895m
Meal
Breakfast
Accommodation
Hotel
Day 7
Hike to Petseling Monastery
Hike through pristine forests to the peaceful Petseling Monastery, where you can engage with monks and enjoy panoramic views of the Bumthang valleys. The return trek offers equally scenic vistas.
Travel duration
3-4 hours
Elevation
2850m
Meal
Breakfast
Accommodation
Hotel
Day 8
Bumthang to Phobjikha Valley
Drive to the picturesque Phobjikha Valley, famous for the endangered black-necked cranes that migrate here in winter. Visit the Gangtey Monastery, perched above the valley, and immerse yourself in the tranquil atmosphere.
Travel duration
-
Elevation
3000m
Meal
Breakfast
Accommodation
Hotel
Day 9
Phobjikha Valley Exploration
Spend the day exploring the valley on foot, wandering through small villages, lush farmlands, and forests. You may also visit the Crane Information Centre to learn more about the rare black-necked cranes that call this valley home.
Travel duration
-
Elevation
3000m
Meal
Breakfast
Accommodation
Hotel
Day 10
Phobjikha Valley to Wangdue
After a leisurely morning in Phobjikha, drive to Wangdue, a small town in the heart of Bhutan. Visit Wangdue Phodrang Dzong, a historic fortress under restoration after a fire. Spend the evening exploring the local market.
Travel duration
-
Elevation
1310m
Meal
Breakfast
Accommodation
Hotel
Day 11
Wangdue to Thimphu
Drive to Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital. On the way, visit Simtokha Dzong, one of the oldest dzongs in Bhutan, before arriving in the bustling city of Thimphu. Spend the evening at leisure.
Travel duration
-
Elevation
2320m
Meal
Breakfast
Accommodation
Hotel
Day 12
Sightseeing in Thimphu
Explore Thimphu with visits to landmarks like the Buddha Dordenma Statue, National Memorial Chorten, and Tashichho Dzong. In the afternoon, visit local handicraft shops and the National Institute for Zorig Chusum (Arts & Crafts).
Travel duration
-
Elevation
2320m
Meal
Breakfast
Accommodation
Hotel
Day 13
Drive to Paro and Hike to Tiger's Nest Monastery
Return to Paro and embark on the iconic hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang). Perched on a cliff, this sacred site is one of Bhutan’s most revered pilgrimage spots. The trek offers breathtaking views of the Paro Valley.
Travel duration
4-5 hours
Elevation
3180m
Meal
Breakfast
Accommodation
Hotel
Day 14
Final Departure
Transfer to Paro International Airport for your flight home, ending your unforgettable journey through Bhutan’s cultural and natural highlights.
Travel duration
-
Elevation
2250m
Meal
Breakfast
Accommodation
-
Highlights of Bhutan
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